By IANS,
New Delhi : Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Monday promised a new law on land acquisition soon that will be fair and transparent to protect the interests of farmers and also address the need for industrialization.
“I am fully aware of the tensions caused in some parts of the country because of acquisition of land for industry, infrastructure and urbanization. Our farmers have been especially affected by such acquisition,” the prime minister said in his Independence Day address to the nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort.
“Land acquisition is no doubt necessary for projects of public interest. But it should take place in a transparent and fair manner. The interests of those whose livelihoods are dependent on the land being acquired should be fully protected.
“We will ensure that no injustice is done to anyone in the process of land acquisition. Our government wants to replace the 117-year-old land acquisition law by a new law, which is forward looking and balanced.”
The draft of the new legislation was circulated by the rural development ministry for consultations with and comments from all stake-holders. These can be sent to the ministry by the end of this month.
“We have initiated steps to build a consensus on it. We will soon introduce a bill in parliament to this end,” he said.